The PTA was already familiar with Pandrol’s VIPA track fastening system, which has been used successfully in the city since 1997. We proposed the Fastclip Baseplate as a natural evolution of the VIPA system.
The Fastclip Baseplate combines safety, durability and the latest technology in a compact package. Its vibration isolating features made it an excellent option to reduce vibration radiation in the Forrestfield-Airport Link tunnels.
The fastening assembly is highly configurable and we developed a specification that met SI-NRW’s attenuation requirements precisely. We also designed a specially tuned system for short sections of the line where intermediate levels of support were needed for the transition from hard to soft track. Although only 300 of these modified baseplates were needed, they will make a major contribution to passenger comfort once the line opens, ensuring no sudden jolts between different types of track.
The track is being built with pre-cast concrete elements and we worked closely with the sleeper manufacturer to ensure the pre-assembled fastening units could be positioned and tightened into alignment with precision. Once on track, vertical and lateral adjustments can be made without fully disassembling the system.
Rigorous testing – including specialist input by an acoustic engineer – ensured the customised system met the levels of vibration performance required for the Forrestfield-Airport Link. With solution signed off, the castings and clips went into production at our Intercast & Forge foundry in South Australia.